Globe-Trotting on Your Own? Here Are the Best Vacation Cities for Solo Travelers! Javier Peinado September 6, 2023 Solo Travel You don’t have to give up your travel dreams just because you’re single! Or maybe you’re married, but you still want to set off on a solo adventure. Either way, solo travel is an incredible opportunity to craft a travel experience that meets all of your personal needs and preferences. Whether your travel goals take you on the ultimate adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing trip designed to refresh and recharge, you’re in charge of all of the details when traveling solo. For once, it’s all about you. Here are a few of the best vacation ideas for those looking for the best vacation cities for singles to scratch their itch for wanderlust on their own. Santa Barbara, California If your travel dreams include chilling out on the beach, taking a hike in the mountains, or sipping on world-class wine, you would be wise to consider Santa Barbara as your next destination. Located along the central coast of California, this beachside city has it all. In addition to the stunning natural beauty, the trendy city also boasts a wide array of cultural activities to enjoy. Explore the scenic beaches, visit Lotusland gardens, tour local wineries, hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, wander State Street’s shops, and enjoy art at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Solo travelers can also relax at Stearns Wharf or take a sunset cruise for a memorable Santa Barbara experience. Austin, Texas The self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin is a great choice for the single traveler. The famous stretch of the 6th Street Historic District is the place to be for live music performances and an unrivaled vibrancy. Austin also plays host to some of the country’s best music festivals, notably South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL). Beyond the vibrant music scene, solo travelers can explore the vibrant street art in the South Congress district, hike or bike along Lady Bird Lake, visit the Texas State Capitol, indulge in barbecue at Franklin Barbecue, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, and enjoy the live music scene on Sixth Street. Austin offers a diverse range of solo-friendly experiences. On a solo trip to Austin, you will never have a chance to get bored. Amsterdam One of Amsterdam’s famous canals. If you are looking to unleash your party animal on your solo travel journey, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Amsterdam. This quintessentially permissive city is known for its famous Red Light District and laid-back vibe. However, Amsterdam is more than a good party. You’ll also find a city bursting with cultural opportunities, including over 100 museums and historical sights. Amsterdam features over 1,000 picturesque bridges that cross the more than 150 canals, offering fun spots for all of those solo selfies. Or escape to the countryside for a bike ride amidst the fields of tulips and windmills. Buenos Aires The cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires will take your breath away with its natural green spaces and its seductive vibe. Buenos Aires has earned the nickname of “The Paris of South America” due to its amazing food and wine and vibrant nightlife scene. Distinctive neighborhoods to explore include La Boca, Palermo, or the Soho district. Take a tango lesson or a professional tango show. Indulge in a delicious steak dinner. Or visit one of the city’s many museums, including the MALBA, or Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires, a renowned art museum that specializes in Latin American art, featuring an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks from the region. And most importantly, engage with friendly locals while experiencing the city’s vibrant culture. You may also like: 10 Crucial Solo Travel Mistakes to Avoid Montreal Cobblestone road in Old Montreal Despite its location in Quebec, Montreal has a decidedly European feel. There is no shortage of things to do in this diverse metropolitan area. During the day, you can explore Old Montreal’s historic charm, visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, bike along the scenic Lachine Canal, try local cuisine at Jean-Talon Market, and stroll through Mount Royal Park for panoramic views. At night, enjoy a platter of decadent poutine, then take in a show at Le Belmont, one of Montreal’s hippest night spots. If you happen to be in Montreal in July, consider taking in a comedy performance at the Just for Laughs Festival. This two-week event is known for featuring a wide range of comedy performances, including stand-up comedy, improv, sketch comedy, and more. It’s one of the largest and most prestigious comedy festivals in the world, attracting comedians and comedy fans from around the globe. Budapest Budapest has everything that you have been looking for for a solo travel locale. Don’t miss strolling the cobbled streets of the old city, exploring the fairytale castles, or noshing on the delicious street food. Explore historic Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, cruise the Danube River, indulge in Hungarian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, architecture, and lively cultural scene. In particular, you might want to check out a “ruin bar.” These bars are typically set up in abandoned or derelict buildings, creating an eclectic and artistic atmosphere. They feature mismatched furniture, graffiti-covered walls, and a mix of vintage and contemporary décor. Ruin bars offer a vibrant nightlife experience with live music, drinks, and a bohemian ambiance, making them a must-visit attraction The capital city of Hungary is also known for its thermal baths, the ideal ending to a day spent on your feet. These natural hot thermal mineral waters are also great spots to connect with other travelers while relaxing. Queenstown, New Zealand For a true bucket list adventure trip, head down to New Zealand to explore the bustling city of Queenstown. Located on the South Island, this lovely destination offers plenty of activities that are sure to get your heart pumping. Experience an adrenaline rush as you go bungee jumping or head out onto the water for a jet boat tour. Queenstown is surrounded by towering mountains, clear lakes, and majestic fjords, providing a gorgeous backdrop for hikes and bike rides. Lastly, end your trip with a relaxing evening at one of the dozens of charming sidewalk cafes. Do you have any cities to add to our solo-traveler list? Tell us about it in the comments below!
